The Board of Governors of Hillside Family of Agencies has announced the appointment of Maria Cristalli as President and Chief Executive Officer. She succeeds Dennis M. Richardson, who retired from the top leadership role on June 30.
A graduate of the University of Rochester with a Master’s Degree in Public Health, Cristalli has devoted her career to youth and families. She joined Hillside Family of Agencies in 1991 and has steadily taken on new leadership and executive responsibilities during her tenure. As Chief Strategy and Quality Officer, she provided vision, leadership and direction for Hillside’s strategic planning, quality improvement, business intelligence and healthcare functions throughout the agency. She was promoted to the position of Chief Operating Officer in January 2017, and was named Interim CEO following Richardson’s retirement.
“Hillside is in a unique position to partner with communities to impact the lives of youth and families in this era of epochal change in human services,” Cristalli said. “I am highly energized by our dedicated and capable staff, who build lasting relationships with the people we serve every day. I deeply appreciate the confidence placed in me by our Board and our staff—and I am excited to lead our organization as we continue to provide compassionate and comprehensive services.”
Hillside Family of Agencies offers one of the most diverse array of services for children and families, ranging from primary preventive to residential treatment services. HFA has developed nationally recognized innovative services for children and their families. With Cristalli’s leadership, the agency will continue to partner with peer organizations to emphasize the importance of quality, outcomes and efficiency.
“Maria Cristalli is second to none in her service to Hillside; her commitment to our youth, families and communities; and her deep understanding of this agency’s vital role in the ever-changing human-services landscape,” said Ed White, Chairman of Hillside’s Board of Governors. “She has earned the respect of the Hillside community, as well as our strategic partners and funders, many times over. With Maria at the helm, Hillside’s future is bright indeed.”